Mercer Times

At Princeton’s Class Day ceremony on Monday, May 27, actor Sam Waterston invoked the wisdom of Shakespeare, Montaigne, and Abraham Lincoln to capture the joy and promise of this moment for seniors. "It’s your turn. That's why it's called Commencement," he said. “This is the prime time for action, for seizing the day, time to be out in the world and getting things done.”

In his remarks, Waterston assured the seniors that he would not tell them how to think or what to do. “It’s your turn,” he repeated.

Waterston is widely recognized for his role as district attorney Jack McCoy in "Law & Order," a part he played for 400 episodes before leaving the show in February. Reflecting on stepping away from that role, Waterston mentioned it opened up significant mental space, which he found beneficial.

Drawing a parallel with Michel de Montaigne, who left his advisory role in the French court to invent the essay form 400 years ago, Waterston noted that people still read Montaigne's essays today. He urged seniors to take moments to clear their minds and tackle big questions beyond university life. "If you’re like every generation before you, you’ll keep the ball rolling," he said. "The possibility is there that you will be the ones who finally get the answer right."

The Class Day tradition at Princeton dates back to before the Civil War and includes awards, reminiscences, and symbolic gestures such as presenting a key to the campus by the University President.

Before proceedings began, seniors gathered on Cannon Green behind Nassau Hall amidst a festive atmosphere with music and photo opportunities with family members. The annual event is organized by seniors to celebrate their achievements.

Princeton President Christopher L. Eisgruber addressed graduates and guests before introducing Waterston's speech. He highlighted that Class Day has always been organized by seniors themselves and announced handing over metaphorical keys to senior class leaders.

Class president Sydney Johnson encouraged her classmates to cherish each moment and live without regrets while pushing themselves beyond comfort zones. She emphasized their responsibility to enact change due to their privileged education.

Student speakers Sierra Stern and Rohit Narayanan shared humorous and inspirational memories of their class's unique bond during challenging times like remote learning during the pandemic.

The ceremony also honored four individuals as honorary class members: Mia Gonzalez Guerrero from Campus Dining; Neena Simpson from the Office of Undergraduate Students; Claire Gmachl from Electrical Engineering; and James Vreeland from Politics and International Affairs.

A captioned video of the ceremony is available online. Graduation activities will continue with Princeton University's 277th Commencement scheduled for Tuesday, May 28 at 10 a.m.

Lauren Fahlberg exchanged a hug with Waterston after class officers gave him a class jacket marking his induction as an honorary member of the Class of 2024.

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